Law to expand New York’s DNA databank signed

A bill that makes New York State the first “all crimes DNA” state in the nation, by requiring DNA samples be collected from anyone convicted of a felony or Penal Law misdemeanor was signed into law by Governor Andrew Cuomo who was joined by Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos, and Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver. In addition, the new law also significantly expands defendants’ access to DNA testing and comparison both before and after conviction in appropriate circumstances, as well as to discovery after conviction where innocence is claimed.

Governor Cuomo introduced the DNA Databank expansion legislation as a centerpiece of his 2012 legislative agenda.

“I am proud to sign this bill today because this modern law enforcement tool will not only help us solve and prevent crimes but also exonerate the innocent,” said Cuomo. “The bottom line is that this is a tool that works, and will make the state safer for all New Yorkers. I thank Majority Leader Skelos, Speaker Silver, Senators Saland and Golden, and Assemblyman Lentol for their leadership on this issue.”